Pricing and availability

Average Price: $2,600

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Unleash your inner shredder with the Ibanez Egen18, a masterfully crafted signature model designed in collaboration with virtuoso guitarist Herman Li of DragonForce. This solid body electric guitar is not just an instrument; it's a high-speed conduit for your most intense musical expressions. The Egen18 boasts a sleek mahogany body topped with exquisite flame maple, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and resonant sound quality.

The guitar’s 5-piece maple/walnut neck promises ultra-fast playability, catering to players who demand precision and speed. Additionally, the scalloped frets from the 21st to 24th positions provide enhanced control over your upper-register solos. Herman Li's signature touches are evident, from the unique upper-horn grip designed for comfort during high-energy performances, to the trio of pickups that deliver a spectrum of powerful tones. The two custom DiMarzio humbuckers and a discreet yet potent middle pickup offer versatility, allowing you to traverse effortlessly from searing leads to thick, rich chords.

For those who crave dynamic expression, the Edge-Zero tremolo bridge ensures stability and a wide range of pitch-altering fun without compromising tuning integrity. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the Egen18 is equipped to bring your musical visions to life with clarity and confidence.

Key Features:

  • Solid mahogany body with a striking flame maple top
  • 5-piece maple/walnut neck for swift, comfortable play
  • Scalloped frets from the 21st to 24th fret for enhanced upper-register control
  • Edge-Zero tremolo bridge for superior tuning stability and expressive bending
  • DiMarzio HLM Herman Li signature pickups for high-gain versatility

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model EGEN18-DRG Herman Li Signature with Ebony Fretboard, EGEN18-DRG Herman Li Signature with Rosewood Fretboard, EGEN18-TVF Herman Li Signature with Rosewood Fretboard
Finish Dragon's Blood, Transparent Violet Flat
Year 2008 - 2019
Made In Japan
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Artist Herman Li
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Locking Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Orange, Purple
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Style Satin
Fretboard Material Ebony, Rosewood
Model Family Ibanez S
Model Sub-Family Ibanez EGEN
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple, Walnut
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HSH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Ibanez Artist Signature
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Flamed

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Ibanez EGEN18?

The Ibanez EGEN18 features a thin, fast Wizard III neck profile, making it ideal for shredding and fast playing styles. This neck is constructed from maple and walnut, providing stability and smooth playability.

What type of pickups does the Ibanez EGEN18 have, and what tones can I expect?

The Ibanez EGEN18 is equipped with an HSH pickup configuration, using DiMarzio pickups. This setup offers a versatile range of tones, from warm, full humbucker sounds to bright, articulate single-coil tones, suitable for rock and metal genres.

Is the Ibanez EGEN18 suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the Ibanez EGEN18 is designed with advanced players in mind, featuring a high-performance neck, locking tremolo bridge, and versatile pickup configuration, making it perfect for technical playing and live performances.

Does the Ibanez EGEN18 come with a locking tremolo system?

Yes, the Ibanez EGEN18 is equipped with a locking tremolo bridge, allowing for stable tuning even during aggressive tremolo use and dive-bombs.

What is the body material of the Ibanez EGEN18, and how does it affect the sound?

The body of the Ibanez EGEN18 is made from mahogany, which contributes to its warm, resonant tone with a solid low-end response, ideal for rock and metal music.

Musician's Friend

Musician's Friend

Ibanez Herman Li EGEN18 Signature Electric Guitar

Video thumbnail for Ibanez Herman Li EGEN18 Signature Electric Guitar by Musician's Friend

Ibanez Herman Li EGEN18 Signature Electric Guitar

Musician's Friend

Musician's Friend

Video thumbnail for My gear - Ibanez Egen18 demo by RoyMcKaren

My gear - Ibanez Egen18 demo

RoyMcKaren

RoyMcKaren

Video thumbnail for Ibanez Herman Li EGEN18 Signature by Swee Lee

Ibanez Herman Li EGEN18 Signature

Swee Lee

Swee Lee

Video thumbnail for New riff- and guitar test (Ibanez EGEN18-TVF, Herman Li Signature!!) by Milkafuchs

New riff- and guitar test (Ibanez EGEN18-TVF, Herman Li Signature!!)

Milkafuchs

Milkafuchs

Video thumbnail for Ibanez EGEN18 (Herman Li Signature) by Jose Mesta

Ibanez EGEN18 (Herman Li Signature)

Jose Mesta

Jose Mesta

Video thumbnail for Ibanez Egen18 Herman Li Signature MIJ Guitar | Dragonforce, Demoniac by Marcos -Warheart- Aguirre

Ibanez Egen18 Herman Li Signature MIJ Guitar | Dragonforce, Demoniac

Marcos -Warheart- Aguirre

Marcos -Warheart- Aguirre

Video thumbnail for Paradoxical feelings - with my new EGEN18-TVF (Ibanez Herman Li Signature) by Lernyz

Paradoxical feelings - with my new EGEN18-TVF (Ibanez Herman Li Signature)

Lernyz

Lernyz

Reviews

PROS

  • Lightweight design makes it easy to handle during long performances

  • DiMarzio pickups deliver exceptional sound quality and versatility

  • Super fast neck enhances playability for quick and intricate solos

  • High-quality craftsmanship ensures durability and longevity

  • Thoughtful body design improves comfort and accessibility

  • Offers a unique tonal range for personalized sound

  • Excellent for musicians seeking a distinctive and professional appearance

CONS

  • Limited availability since Ibanez stopped selling them

  • Bridge adjustments can be challenging for some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez Egen18.

Value and pricing

  • It's suggested that Ibanez Prestige S or RG models deliver similar features for less money than the EGEN18, questioning the price premium for the scalloped fretboard.

    Source
  • A recent purchase of the EGEN18 in Dragonsblood cost approximately $2300, including shipping, demonstrating some variability in market pricing.

    Source
  • EGEN18 prices can vary significantly, with some owners purchasing for as low as $1200 in 2022, highlighting potential deals for patient buyers.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some owners recommend exploring PRS Custom 24 or custom Carvin models as potential alternatives to the EGEN18, citing better personal satisfaction.

    Source
  • Discontent with pickup rings is noted, with owners preferring direct mount humbuckers as seen on other Ibanez S series models.

    Source
  • The EGEN18's unique pickup voicing offers higher output and extensive splitting options, distinct from standard Ibanez models.

    Source

User experience

  • One user expresses concern about not testing the guitar before buying and uncertainty about the wood's impact on playability and tone, highlighting a common buying hesitation.

    Source
  • Owners celebrate the EGEN18's versatility, highlighting its adaptable switching systems and pickups, which some find spoiling compared to other guitars.

    Source
  • A purple EGEN18 owner reports it has become their go-to guitar, indicating high satisfaction and frequent use.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners of the EGEN18 in Violet Purple report consistently high satisfaction, with some stating it as their preferred choice for frequent play.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Setting Reverb notifications and expanding shipping regions can help prospective buyers locate more EGEN18 listings, especially for European transactions.

    Source

Critic Reviews

EGEN18 Herman Li Signature Review: The Ibanez Zero Edge Tremolo is Amazing, it makes tuning and... | Ibanez | Electric Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The Ibanez EGEN18 Herman Li Signature guitar offers versatility beyond its shredder reputation, making it a "Swiss knife" for diverse genres. With its high-quality pickups and 10 pickup combinations, it caters to both heavy riffing and jazz tones. The Zero Edge Tremolo is a standout feature, providing excellent tuning stability even under rigorous play. However, the hefty price tag and challenging tremolo spring adjustment wheel are drawbacks. Overall, it's a superb instrument for those seeking a high-performance, multifaceted guitar, despite its premium cost.

positive

EGEN18 Herman Li Signature Review: This, comforts people. This, Needs to be played. | Ibanez | Electric Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The Ibanez EGEN18 Herman Li Signature guitar is a high-performance instrument tailored for metal and shredding enthusiasts. It boasts exceptional sound quality, versatility, and impressive features like the Edge Zero tremolo system and DiMarzio pickups, making it perfect for complex techniques such as harmonics and tapping. The guitar's reliability and durability are highlighted, with a secure strap system that ensures stability during live performances. However, the high action upon arrival might require adjustments, and the middle pickup may sit too high for some players' comfort. Despite these minor flaws, the guitar's craftsmanship and attention to detail earn it high praise, solidifying its status as a must-have for dedicated guitarists.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
christophervizcarra

The best it can ever get

Make no mistake this elegant instrument is built to perform for years to come. If you are meticulous when it comes to the aesthetics of an instrument from craftsmanship to sound this is one that should not be overlooked.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Herman Li uses Ibanez Egen18

Herman Li

Guitarist, Podcasters & Streamers

DragonForce

...
Verified via YouTube

At 0:34 in this video, Herman Li of DragonForce is talking about his Ibanez Egen18.

See how Ed Wynne uses Ibanez Egen18

Ed Wynne

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Ozric Tentacles

...
Verified via YouTube

Ed Wynne has been using the Ibanez Egen18 electric guitar since around 2015, as seen in the live performance video of Ozric Tentacles at Le Badaboum on MisèRecords' Moving Pictures Theater YouTube channel.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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